Europe is currently experiencing a significant weather event known as a “heat dome,” leading to sweltering conditions across several countries including Spain, France, Italy, and Greece. The UK’s temperatures have reached up to 33.1°C (91.6°F) at Heathrow, with similar hot weather expected in the following days.
A heat dome occurs when a high-pressure system remains stationary over an area for an extended period. This phenomenon traps hot air beneath it, akin to a pizza oven, causing temperatures to rise sharply. As the ground becomes drier, it absorbs even more heat, exacerbating the situation. The effect of this weather pattern is notably severe, with parts of southern and eastern England feeling the impact of the same high pressure that has brought extreme temperatures to Southern Europe.
Forecasts indicate that temperatures in London and the South East may climb to around 34°C (93.2°F). The night following this peak temperature is expected to be particularly uncomfortable, labeled a “tropical night,” where temperatures won’t drop below 20°C (68°F), making sleep difficult. In contrast, northern and western regions of Britain will experience cooler, wetter conditions as cooler air begins to penetrate those areas.
Climate experts warn that while heat domes have existed before, their intensity is increasing largely due to climate change. Dr. Michael Byrne, a climate scientist, states that while it’s unclear if heat domes are becoming more frequent, the intensity of heatwaves is undeniably increasing due to higher baseline temperatures caused by climate change. Europe is already over 2°C warmer than pre-industrial levels, and this warming trend is leading to more extreme weather conditions.
The serious implications of heatwaves, often referred to as “silent killers,” include heightened risks of severe health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, small children, and pregnant women. Additionally, the rising temperatures create favorable conditions for wildfires, crop failures, and failures in infrastructure like railways and power lines.
Experts emphasize the urgency of taking proactive measures in response to climate change rather than merely reacting to each heat crisis. Dr. Madeleine Thomson highlights the need for a coordinated approach to build resilience against future heat events. Addressing climate change and adapting to a hotter world is essential, and the tools to do so are available; the prevailing need is for decisive action.
The current heatwave serves as a reminder of the growing challenges posed by climate change, but it also presents an opportunity for climate action, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and infrastructure that can withstand extreme heat in the future.